Universal Children’s Day: The Declaration of the Rights of the Child

Universal Children’s Day was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations on December 14th, 1954, in Resolution 836 (IX). Check out this clip of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt reading a statement about World Children’s Day.

Eleanor Roosevelt described World Children’s Day as a day to remind us of our responsibilities to children everywhere. She says that only a “happy and healthy” generation can shape the future we want. Following the Resolution for Universal Children’s Day, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child on November 20th, 1959, which is one reason many countries choose to honor children on this date each year. To remind all of us of the rights we must protect for all children, we have summarized and posted them here:

1. No child will be denied these rights based on any form of discrimination against them or their family.

2. Children have the right to grow up in freedom and dignity.

3. Every child has the right to a name and nationality.

4. Every child has the right to good health services.

5. Children with special needs have the right to have their needs met.

6. Children have the right to be raised in a loving and understanding family.

7. Every child has the right to education.

8. Children have the right to be protected first.

9. Every child has the right to develop as a child without exploitation.

10. Every child has the right to be brought up in understanding, tolerance, and friendship.

We hope you enjoy the day and want to thank you for helping to protect the rights of children everywhere.